Best attractions and places to see around the Ems include a diverse range of natural landscapes and cultural sites. The Ems River, which flows through the region, is a central feature, offering scenic views and extensive cycling paths. The Emsland district provides opportunities to explore historic town centers, significant industrial sites, and various nature parks. This area combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, making it suitable for outdoor activities and historical exploration.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The route along the DEK is really good to cycle on. A few years ago, the original route along the Dortmund Ems Canal in the Lingen area was still on gravel roads that were called cycle paths. Fortunately, those days are over and people have learned to create new paths for cyclists 🚴♀️ 🚴♂️ that are as good as those for car drivers. But it's worth leaving the canal every now and then.
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Another one of many locks on the Ems and the Dortmund-Ems Canal.
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Emssee and Emsseepark are close to the city center and form a beautiful, ideal local recreation area, right on the Emsauenradweg.
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The Emssee in Warendorf is fantastically beautiful and offers many opportunities such as sailing, walking, fitness, playground, flower beds, Emsradweg, Ems, Emsseepark, various sculptures, benches, etc. Simply impressive and diverse.
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Old lock The first lock chamber was built in 1896 using the embankment construction method and was put into operation with the completion of the Dortmund-Ems Canal in 1899. It is 165 m long, 10 m wide and is closed with two stem gates. New lock Parallel to the old lock, another, wider lock chamber was built in 1955/56. It is 165 m long and 12 m wide. Between 2013 and 2015, the facility was completely renovated and brought up to date at a cost of around 8 million euros. The lock was given new sliding gates and was set up for remote control and monitoring from the Meppen control center. Since not all work could be carried out during ongoing operations, the new lock had to be closed temporarily and shipping had to be diverted via the old lock. As part of this work, the lock bridge was also completely replaced in 2013.
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Tip-top route and almost always water in view
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The Emsauen in Telgte offer a nice opportunity for walkers to stroll away from the city center in the middle of nature.
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The Ems region is excellent for cycling. The 375-kilometer Ems Cycle Path follows the river's course, offering scenic views through diverse landscapes. Another popular option is the Dortmund-Ems Canal Cycle Path. For more detailed routes, you can explore various Road Cycling Routes around the Ems, including loops near Meppen and Rheine.
Yes, the Ems region boasts an extensive network of hiking trails, especially within its nature parks like Hümmling Nature Park. You can find various Hiking around the Ems guides, including easy circular walks in heathlands and along the Ems adventure trail. For more challenging terrain, consider the Mountain Hikes around the Ems, which include routes to the Dörenther Cliffs.
The Ems region offers a rich cultural heritage. You can explore the unique star-shaped
Clemenswerth Palace in Sögel or the historic Bentlage Monastery in Rheine, which now houses an art museum. Ancient Megalithic Tombs can be found along the Road of Megalithic Culture in Hümmling Nature Park. The Emsland Moor Museum in Geeste provides insights into peat cutting history, and the Meyer Werft Shipyard in Papenburg offers a glimpse into modern shipbuilding.
Many attractions around the Ems are suitable for families. The region features numerous swimming lakes with excellent water quality for cooling down. The Surwolds Wald recreation area offers a climbing forest, a summer toboggan run, and miniature golf. Additionally, places like Emsflower in Emsbüren combine plant production with an engaging visitor park. Highlights such as Telgte Market Square and Historic Market Square, Warendorf, are also marked as family-friendly.
Yes, the Ems River and its surrounding lakes provide various water-based activities. Canoeing on the Ems is a popular choice. Many lakes, such as Ems Lake, Warendorf, offer opportunities for swimming, fishing, and sailing. The river itself, like the Ems River in Rheine, is a central feature for scenic views and riverside paths.
The Ems region is rich in natural beauty. The Ems River itself is a prominent feature, originating from the Emsquellen (Ems Springs) near Hövelhof. Impressive rock formations like the Dörenther Cliffs offer unique landscapes. The region also boasts 70 nature reserves and several nature parks, including the Emsland Geopark and Bourtanger Moor Nature Park. The South Observation Tower at Steinhorster Becken provides excellent views of a natural reserve.
Absolutely. The Ems region features several charming historic town centers. Papenburg, with its canals and historic ship replicas, offers a unique atmosphere. Other notable towns include Meppen, Rheine, and Telgte, which features the Telgte Market Square with its historic buildings. The Historic Centre of Gimbte is also a picturesque destination with cafés and restaurants.
Visitors frequently praise the region's blend of natural beauty and cultural sites. The scenic paths along the Ems River, such as the one near Ems River, Rheine, are highly appreciated, especially in autumn. The cozy atmosphere of historic market squares like Historic Market Square, Warendorf, with their restaurants and cafés, also receives positive feedback. The tranquility and opportunities for relaxation are often highlighted.
Yes, the Meyer Werft Shipyard in Papenburg is a significant industrial highlight. Visitors can witness the construction of colossal cruise ships, with viewing points available to observe these maritime giants. Another interesting industrial site is Hilter Lock on the Dortmund-Ems Canal, featuring two lock chambers, one dating back to 1899.
The Ems region is enjoyable throughout the year, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer are ideal for cycling, hiking, and water sports, with pleasant weather for outdoor dining in town centers. Autumn offers particularly scenic views along the Ems River with vibrant foliage. While some outdoor activities might be limited, winter can still be charming for exploring historic towns and enjoying local events like the Telgter Advent.
While specific details for all attractions vary, some areas are noted for accessibility. The Ems bridge is marked as wheelchair accessible, and many town centers and riverside paths offer relatively flat terrain. When planning your visit, it's advisable to check specific locations for detailed accessibility information.


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